Astoria

The first on my list of best restaurants is Astoria. This popular place is located in the heart of Budva, within the walls of the Old Town. The restaurant is part of a hotel and features a small indoor dining area inside the Old Town (accessible from the main gate) as well as a terrace on Richardova Glava Beach—offering a stunning seaside view, which is undoubtedly its greatest advantage. Astoria also has another venue along the Budva Riviera, called La Bocca, which offers the same menu and courteous staff while overlooking the breathtaking Adriatic Sea. However, it’s worth noting that while the indoor dining area of Astoria features comfortable, soft chairs, the beachfront locations resemble more of a café setting, with plastic chairs, tables, and umbrellas. Pros and cons of Astoria restaurant:

• Pros:

1. A best place for a picturesque and scenic view, especially on a sunny, calm best day;
2. Open all year round, unlike many other seasonal restaurants;
3. Delicious, filling breakfasts and some of the best pastries in Montenegro. The cakes are large and absolutely worth trying!

• Cons:

1. In the winter season, strong winds and rain make outdoor seating uncomfortable, and the indoor ambiance is not as charming as one might hope;
2. Frequent water outages occur in the Old Town, more often than in the rest of Budva. During these outages, you may not be able to get hot coffee or tea—only juices and soft drinks—though they can still prepare food, which raises hygiene concerns;
3. La Bocca, despite being one of the best beach restaurants on the Budva Riviera, operates only from May to the end of September.

Bar Casper

Bar Casper is a charming and inviting spot located in the Old Town, in one of the most popular places in Budva, near the Budva City Museum. This best place is known for its unique atmosphere and is highly recommended for a visit! Pros and cons:

• Pros:

1. The largest variety of coffee in Budva, featuring different brands and options that you won’t find anywhere else;
2. A very atmospheric and authentic setting, enhanced by beautiful greenery that adds to the charm of this best place, especially on a sunny best day;
3. The walls of the Old Town provide shelter from the wind, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the experience even on breezy days;
4. Delicious croissants—some of the best in Budva!;
5. Unique breakfast options for vegans;
6. Extremely friendly and polite staff who speak multiple languages;
7. A pet-friendly environment where animals are truly welcome.

• Cons:

1. While on a chilly or rainy day, the staff will offer you a heater, an umbrella will protect you from the rain, and a warm cup of coffee will keep you cozy, this venue is entirely open-air. That means you may not be able to linger as long as you’d like in colder or wet weather.

Hemingway Bar-Restaurant

The next on my list is Hemingway Bar & Restaurant. This popular place is located in a picturesque area in the center of Budva, not far from the Old Town. Hemingway features an indoor dining area with 8-10 tables, a bar counter, and a spacious outdoor seating area with plenty of tables. The outdoor section is covered by an adjustable canopy that can be opened or closed as needed. Additionally, a few tables are placed along the restaurant’s windows, increasing the number of available seats. Personally, I enjoyed spending my mornings here with a cup of coffee, especially in spring and autumn. On sunny best days, I loved warming up in the sunlight, while on windy or rainy days, I preferred staying inside where it was cozy and comfortable. Pros and Cons:

• Pros:

1. A great and picturesque location.
2. Offers different seating options.
3. Hearty breakfasts and delicious soups.
4. Aesthetic and comfortable interior.
5. Outdoor seating includes cushions for added comfort, making it a best place for long stays.

• Cons:

1. The menu is rather basic and similar to many other restaurants in the area, lacking uniqueness.
2. Service is not always fast, which can sometimes be disappointing.

Restaurant El Faro

Restaurant El Faro is one of the best restaurants in Budva for me. This best place is perfect for any meal and offers many advantages. I highly recommend it for the whole family. Now, let’s go over the pros and cons of this popular place.

• Pros:

1. Located in the center of Budva, inside the "Tre Canne" building, making it easily accessible on foot.

2. Features a very cozy and inviting interior.

3. Has an outdoor terrace, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in the fresh air.

4. Offers a diverse and delicious menu that stands out from other restaurants in town.

5. Provides set lunch options.

6. Frequently offers discounts and complimentary treats from the restaurant.

7. Prepares food for takeout.

8. The staff is highly professional, polite, communicative, attentive, and patient—true experts in their field.

• Cons:

1. The indoor space may not appeal to everyone due to its limited size and small number of tables.
2. Prices might be a bit higher compared to regular cafés and restaurants in Budva, which could be disappointing for some visitors.

Taste Of Asia

Taste Of Asia is a small, popular place with an Asian-inspired theme and incredibly delicious food. I highly recommend it for those looking to add variety to their dining experience. Keep in mind that most dishes are quite spicy, so be prepared for bold flavors.

• Pros:

1. Located within walking distance from the best beach along the Budva Riviera.
2. Tasty and flavorful food.
3. Friendly and welcoming staff.
4. Offers takeout options.
5. Seating available both indoors and outdoors under umbrellas.

• Cons:

1. Closed from late autumn until the end of January, sometimes even until early February, depending on the weather.

Coco Bar, Food and Sea

Coco Bar, Food & Sea is another popular place that you might enjoy as much as I do. I often came here in the morning or afternoon for breakfast or a coffee on warm, sunny days, soaking up the sunshine. The atmosphere is truly amazing! The venue recently upgraded its furniture, adding comfortable sofas and chairs, all with a stunning sea view. Highly recommended!

• Pros:

1. Located in the center of the Budva Riviera, making it easily accessible.

2. Situated right by the sea.

3. Has its own best beach.

4. Plenty of seating areas with different levels of comfort.

5. A very convenient best place for large groups.

6. Offers comfortable sun loungers during the summer season.

7. Breakfasts and coffee are delicious.

8. Friendly staff who quickly recognize regular customers and understand their preferences, often bringing their usual order without the need for a reminder.

• Cons:

1. Although the menu includes pizza, it mostly resembles a typical Montenegrin restaurant selection. It would be great to see a more diverse offering.

Two Captains

This popular restaurant is located on a hill, offering an incredible view of Budva from its veranda. The menu is quite unique—if you have never tried Russian or Ukrainian cuisine, this is the best place to experience authentic national dishes from these countries. Two Captains Restaurant features several cozy dining rooms and a charming open-air veranda for smokers. It’s a great spot for a meal at any time of the day, making it one of the best restaurants for families.

• Pros:

1. Stunning view of Budva.
2. Very cozy and stylish interior.
3. Delicious and diverse menu.
4. Smoking is not allowed inside, which is a big plus.
5. The restaurant is divided into different seating areas, creating a quieter atmosphere.
6. Polite and attentive service.

• Cons:

1. Located on a hill in Becici, which may not be the most convenient spot to reach.
2. The kitchen operates slowly, so be prepared to wait.
3. Portions could be larger.
4. Prices are higher than in a standard Montenegrin traditional restaurant.

Restaurant Fontana

Restaurant Fontana is situated in the heart of Budva, just 50 meters from the promenade. This popular and spacious venue welcomes guests from 7 AM until late at night, operating year-round, regardless of the season or weather. It offers a calm and inviting atmosphere, making it a great spot to unwind at any time of the day. This restaurant was the best place where my gastronomic journey through Montenegro began. During winter and spring, it has a special charm—whether the sun is shining with a light breeze or rain is gently falling, you can sit back and enjoy the moment. The sound of raindrops, combined with the warmth of outdoor heaters, creates an incredibly cozy and relaxing experience.

• Pros:

1. Convenient central location.

2. Delicious and filling breakfasts and lunches.

3. Great coffee and well-prepared alcoholic cocktails.

4. Exquisite croissants.

5. A large indoor dining space with multiple seating areas.

6. A two-level outdoor terrace for summer dining.

7. Friendly and welcoming staff.

8. Frequent live music performances with a relaxing ambiance.

9. Some menu items are slightly cheaper than in other best restaurants serving Montenegrin cuisine, which is a pleasant surprise.

• Cons:

1. The building in front partially blocks the view.

Perla Restaurant and Club

This popular restaurant is located in the center of Budva, not far from the Old Town. It is a large, two-story venue with two separate areas that transform into open summer terraces during the warmer months. Perla Restaurant serves delicious food, but there are some significant drawbacks, which I will discuss below.

• Pros:

1. Excellent location with a scenic view.
2. Spacious and cozy interior.
3. Extensive menu.
4. High-quality and flavorful dishes.

• Cons:

1. While smoking is not allowed indoors, the terraces are designed in a way that makes it feel like smoking happens everywhere. The entire interior is heavily infused with the smell of cigarettes.
2. Very slow and unpredictable service.

Garden cafe

Cafe Garden is a popular and charming spot located in the depths of Budva. It offers a peaceful and cozy atmosphere, making it one of the best places to enjoy a relaxing meal. The café has two seating areas—an indoor space and a glass-enclosed veranda that provides shelter from the rain when needed. The food here is delicious, and the staff is incredibly polite and welcoming to every guest. This is definitely a place worth visiting at least once with the whole family.

• Pros:

1. Tasty and well-prepared menu.
2. Plenty of seating options.
3. Very calm, cozy, and comfortable atmosphere.
4. Friendly and attentive staff.
5. Quick service.

• Cons:

1. The location may not be the most convenient.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Budva offers a wide variety of dining options, but if you’re looking for more than just a meal—if you want to truly enjoy the experience and feel satisfied with every bite—you should definitely visit the best restaurants and cafés I’ve highlighted. Each of them is a best place to enjoy delicious food, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor. These popular places are perfect not only for solo travelers but also for families, groups, and anyone looking to enjoy great food in a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling alone or with loved ones, you’ll find a spot that suits your taste and preferences. If you’re willing to explore beyond Budva, I also recommend two fantastic best restaurants outside the city: Restaurant Galion in Kotor and Verige 65 in the Bay of Kotor. Both offer exceptional dining experiences with stunning views and high-quality cuisine, making them some of the best places to eat in the region. In total, I’ve provided 13 restaurant recommendations instead of the 10 best originally promised to help you discover the best things to do in Budva when it comes to food. Make the best time of your journey, enjoy every meal, and embrace the unique flavors Montenegro has to offer. Wishing you wonderful travels, whether you're relaxing by the best beach, exploring new sights, or indulging in unforgettable culinary experiences on the best day of your trip!